Kinloch Castle on the Scottish island of Rum may be sold to a mystery buyer who plans to turn it into a boutique heritage hotel. NatureScot, the government agency that owns the Category A listed building, says it is in legal talks with its preferred bidder; the sale matters because campaigners and islanders are concerned about the castle’s preservation and future use.

The 20-bedroom neo-Gothic castle was built in 1900 for industrialist Sir George Bullough and once hosted lavish parties attended by socialites, aristocrats and royalty. It went on the market in August 2025 for offers over £750,000, but agents estimate repairs could cost at least £10 million; it has suffered dry rot and damp, and has been closed since 2015.